Music is a foundation subject in Key Stage 3 and all students receive one hour of music education every week. There is a specialist suite of rooms, comprising of one music classroom and three soundproofed practice rooms. The King's has a "music for all" approach and, as such, has an innovative link with Keele University's music department, whereby all students at The King's are eligible for free instrumental or voice tuition provided by final year performance students from the university. The instrumental tutors also act as ambassadors for higher education.

Staff

Key Stage 3: Years 7, 8 and 9

In Key Stage 3, students study a variety of musical genres - music from around the world, music from yesteryear, music from historical periods of interest and music that surround us today. Students explore the genres whilst learning about the three main aspects of performance, composition and appraisal. This approach ensures that students are well set-up for any further study, should they choose music as a Key Stage 4 option.

Key Stage 4: Years 10 and 11

At Key Stage 4, Year 11 are currently following the legacy EDEXCEL specification, exploring four key musical genres and preparing solo and ensemble performances as well as penning two compositions. Year 10 (and future GCSE students) are following the EDUQAS course; these students study two set works in detail: Movement 3 from Mozart's Eine kleine Nachtmusik and Rainbow's Since You've Been Gone. Further to the two set works, students study music from the Western Classical Tradition, Music for Ensemble, Film Music and Popular Music. Students following the EDUQAS GCSE are expected to perform for between 4 and 6 minute on an instrument (or voice) and to prepare two compositions.

Extra Curricular

Orchestra and choir meet on Wednesdays (after school and at lunchtime respectively); on a Friday students can take part in Ukulele club. Instrumental tutors hold their own ensembles for students on particular instruments as well. The music department is working in conjunction with other performing arts subjects in order to prepare students for this year's production of "Bugsy Malone".